A Note on Style: My October Mood

Good morning, LDV readers! This is Karima from A Note on Style with my monthly update on what I am currently feeling inspired by. The first picture that comes to mind with autumn weather approaching includes the traditional fall palette of gold, rust and amber. It’s a reflection of familiar images of leaves welcoming the new season in glorious changing colors. Nature’s palette is often the best inspiration for updating seasonally. I’ll take cues from the outdoors and bring these warm tones into my home temporarily with table linens, decor and throws. I’ll sprinkle a few favorite colors in my wardrobe too. They work beautifully anchored to a neutral base and look sharp punctuated with black.

All shades of yellow, from a warm golden mustard to a bright sunflower, are my current favorites. It’s a color range that’s sticking around too, making appearances in numerous SS19 collections. Depending on the fabric, it really is seasonless. It makes a bold statement as a singular pop, say in a sweater, blazer or skirt. Texture adds depth and sophistication and I love how the color translates in both knitwear and luminous corduroy. The Bella Freud blazer is a great example. It was my first purchase of the season and is already proving to be an incredibly versatile piece paired with every shade of denim.

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Speaking of denim, if you’re going to buy just one new pair of jeans for fall, make them ecru. It’s an obvious substitute for white but carries an edge with a little more newness. Khaite makes one of my favorite styles with contrast stitching that I find appealing. Head to toe with a matching knit is easy, beautiful and classic. Wear now with a loafer or mule, and when the weather cools, anchor with a slim boot.

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Shoes often dictate the vibe of an outfit, so I always like to move past the truly classic and find something that elevates. Loafers are currently looking the most modern with a high tongue or vamp and an elongated toe, either squared off or pointed. Buckles, studs, or tooling contribute to their personality. It’s here, and with bags, that cognac and saddle colors look best to me. That being said, I’ll always favor black over any other shoe color, but for a new piece to make it to my closet, it has to offer something fresh in terms of silhouette, even if it’s a subtle detail.

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With all of the dense solids, it’s nice to have the option to break them up with a print or pattern. It can be done with something as simple as a scarf or as bold as a jacket. Checks and plaids are having a moment this season and fit in beautifully with this fall color palette. You can’t go wrong with a sharply tailored blazer in either of these patterns. Being based in California, it’s mandatory to consider the weight of the fabrication or it’ll only be worn traveling. With that in mind, the gingham Veronica Beard, above, in a textured cotton weave makes a lot of sense. Another option is to introduce plaid via the soft, fluid fabrics used in these skirts, blouses and dresses. Or simply tie on a scarf for a minimal effect. I’m a big fan ofToteme’sscarves for the heft and hand of their silk. They knot beautifully. This black striped geometric would be a forever addition to my collection.